Shia shrine: Dead after shrine collapses in Iraq

In Iraq, a Shiite shrine has partially collapsed as a result of a landslide. Several people were killed – more are suspected under the rubble.

Several people died when a shrine collapsed near the Iraqi city of Karbala. Local authorities have now confirmed this. Six to eight people are still believed to be under the rubble.

Local media reports that a landslide on Saturday evening caused the roof of the Shiite shrine to collapse. The reason for the landslide is suspected to be the high humidity of the past few days. Several believers were rescued alive from the rubble and taken to a nearby hospital for observation.

Holy place for many Shias

The damp stalactite cave is a sacred place for many Shiites. They associate her with Ali. They believe that he was the first true follower of the Prophet Mohammed and thus his rightful successor.

It is believed that Ali and his troops once stayed near the cave. Because his master hadn’t had any water for a long time, Ali moved a huge stone aside and uncovered the trickle that still flows through the stalactite cave.